25 January, 2021

Filipino Beef Mechado (Mechadong Baka)

Posted in : Recipes on January 25, 2021 by : Good Food

Exploring Filipino Beef Mechado: A Savory Stew of Rich Flavors

Filipino Beef Mechado, a dish deeply rooted in culinary tradition, embodies the essence of Filipino comfort food—a flavorful beef stew simmered to perfection with a blend of spices and tangy notes. This beloved dish is a testament to Filipino heritage, known for its robust flavors and hearty appeal. Let’s delve into creating this classic Filipino Beef Mechado recipe, celebrating its richness and cultural significance.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) beef chuck or round, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup calamansi or lemon juice
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 carrot, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Steamed rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and diced tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
3. Simmer with Flavorings:
   • Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in soy sauce and calamansi or lemon juice. Stir to combine.
   • Add beef broth, bay leaves, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef becomes tender.
4. Incorporate Vegetables:
   • Once the beef is tender, add sliced red bell pepper, cubed potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pot. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Season the Beef Mechado with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the flavorful Beef Mechado onto plates or bowls. Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

Tips:

• Beef Selection: Choose cuts suitable for stewing, like chuck or round, which become tender when slow-cooked.
• Marinade: Some recipes call for marinating the beef in the soy sauce and calamansi/lemon juice mixture beforehand for added flavor depth.
• Stew Variations: Mechado often includes raisins or green olives for a touch of sweetness or tanginess, enhancing its flavor profile.

Final Thoughts:

Filipino Beef Mechado embodies the heart and soul of Filipino home cooking—a stew that combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a richly flavored sauce. Its allure lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its ability to bring families together, celebrating tradition and togetherness through shared meals. Prepare this comforting dish, savor each spoonful, and embrace the cultural richness that is Filipino Beef Mechado—a culinary masterpiece that continues to captivate palates and hearts alike.

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